Missing kids found safe at Fairgrounds

Two children reported missing during the Neshoba County Fair that shut the gates to the Fairgrounds were found safe, Sheriff Eric Clark said.

Clark said two children were reported missing in separate incidents during the Fair and both were located safe and sound within an hour. Clark commended the Neshoba County Fair Security and staff for their quick response and coordination with local law enforcement.

“In both cases, Fair Security did a good job out there,” Clark said. “Many of them are law enforcement who are working a second job. They are professional and thorough.”

Clark said the first child reported missing was a 7-year-old male reported missing around 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 26. 

Clark said the incident was reported near Gate 2 and Fair Security was checking head counts of cars leaving from there, though no cars were searched.

“Ultimately it was just a Midway issue,” Clark said. “His parents found him before Fair Security.”

Clark said the search lasted about 30 minutes and was resolved before his deputies could make it to the Fairgrounds.

On Friday, July 28, Clark said a 13-year-old male was reported missing at about 8:55 a.m. Clark said the young man had reportedly left his cabin before 6 a.m. to get breakfast at the Piggly Wiggly stand and had not returned.

Clark said deputies on the Fairgrounds and Fair Security initiated security measures and shut the gates. Clark said the issue was resolved within an hour when the child was found asleep in a cabin adjacent to the one where his family was staying. Fairgoers reported vehicles leaving the grounds being searched.